Five Barclays bank branches across London were targeted by pro-Palestine activists overnight, with windows smashed and buildings defaced with red paint. The activist group, Palestine Action, has claimed responsibility for the attacks, accusing Barclays of financially supporting Elbit Systems, an Israeli-based weapons company.
The Barclays branches targeted were located in Angel, Whitechapel, East Ham, Mayfair, and Hammersmith. Activists vandalised the branches by smashing windows and covering them with red paint, some of which was used to graffiti “Free Palestine” on the buildings.
In Islington, images shared by Guardian journalist Jason Rodrigues showed the front pane of glass at the Essex Road branch completely shattered, with the words “Free Palestine” sprayed beside it. Similar damage was seen at the Whitechapel Road branch, where several windows were smashed, and red paint was spread over the bank’s sign.
Police cordons were in place outside both branches early this morning as authorities began investigating the incidents. A Barclays branch in Berkeley Street, near Green Park station, was also daubed with red paint.
Palestine Action, known for its direct-action protests, has accused Barclays of facilitating the Israeli military’s operations through its investments. In response to the vandalism, a Barclays spokesperson defended the bank’s financial services to the defence sector, stating: “Protest groups have criticised Barclays for providing financial services to defence companies, which is a sector we remain committed to as an essential part of keeping this country and our allies safe.
The spokesperson further condemned the repeated acts of vandalism and intimidation of staff: “The safety of our colleagues and customers is our priority, and we have additional measures in place such as increased security presence and surveillance technology.”
This is not the first time Barclays has been the target of such protests. In June, activists similarly vandalised several branches across the country, including locations in St John’s Wood and Croydon.
The Metropolitan Police have been contacted regarding the latest incidents and are expected to provide updates as investigations continue.
